Archive for the ‘composition’ Category
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battling “that’s a cool chord” syndrome
One of the joys of composition and arrangement is discovering beautiful sounds and placing them in a usable form. I love to sit at the piano and play various combinations of notes, writing down the most unique for later use. However, this activity can lead to “That’s a Cool Chord” Syndrome, or TCCS.
TCCS occurs when [...] -
introducing the ward choir network
Here’s my latest project (or rather, one of my latest projects):
Grate Media presents a music site sponsored by LDSmusic.us - the Ward Choir Network. This site is a public service to those who direct, accompany, or sing in Church choirs. It features discussion forums for those involved in music in the Church, as well as [...] -
ten commandments for piano arrangement
Nathan Howe’s Ten Commandments for Piano Arrangement
Some people have asked me for advice on composing and arranging music. This is the first in a series of practical advice columns for musicians.
1. Choose a good original. An arrangement cannot be good if it is based on a bad original. It’s good to [...] -
the gospel vision of the arts
David Macfarlane sent me this article by President Spencer W. Kimball, and it speaks to the core of my artistic mission in life. I am grateful for talents, but more grateful for excellent reasons to use them, including the joy that the restored Gospel brings through Christ.
The Gospel Vision of the Arts
http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/EmailArticleProcess?action=view&cmlId=113750&locale=0&emId=646153356 -
new women’s trio arrangement
I suppose I’ve never been a huge fan of women’s trio literature. I was in a children’s choir, so I’ve sung quite a few SSA pieces, but I love the fuller sound and increased chord options available with only one additional part. But some type of bug must have bitten me the other [...]